Ohrenkorrektur (Otoplastik) Stuttgart | VMAesthetics

Introduction

Prominent or protruding ears (apostasis otum) affect about 5% of the population and are predominantly congenital. Although they are medically completely harmless, they can cause significant psychological distress, particularly in young children. Teasing, bullying, and loss of confidence during school years are unfortunately common.

Ear correction surgery (otoplastik) is an established, highly reliable surgical procedure to permanently pin back protruding ears and create a balanced, natural-looking shape. This surgery is equally suitable for children (from about 5–6 years of age) and adults, representing one of the most rewarding and satisfying procedures in aesthetic surgery.

Reasons for Ear Correction Surgery

• Protruding ears (typically due to an underdeveloped antihelical fold or an enlarged conchal cartilage)
• Psychological distress or social anxiety stemming from teasing
• Ear asymmetries (one ear protruding more than the other)
• Congenital ear deformities or traumatic ear injuries

Ideal Candidates

An ear pinning surgery is recommended when:

• The ears protrude significantly from the side of the head (> 30 mm distance)
• The individual suffers psychologically due to their ear shape
• The child is at least 5–6 years old (when ear cartilage development is virtually complete)
• There are no active infections in the ear region

Techniques in Ear Correction

1. Classical Mustardé Otoplasty

The most common and trusted method: reshaping and reinforcing the antihelical fold using internal, permanent sutures. Groin/conchal reduction is performed concurrently if necessary.

2. Minimally Invasive Earfold® Method

An alternative using tiny implanted metal clips to reshape the cartilage – involves fewer incisions but is not suitable for all anatomical ear shapes.

Surgical Procedure

• Preparation: Thorough clinical examination and pre-operative photography
• Anesthesia: For children: general anesthesia; for adults: local anesthesia or twilight sedation
• Duration: 1 to 2 hours
• Technique: Incision placed discreetly behind the ear, reshaping/sculpting the cartilage, and securing with permanent internal sutures
• Aftercare: Wearing a protective headband for 4–6 weeks (primarily at night)

Healing Phase

• Week 1: Protective dressing is worn; mild post-operative swelling
• After 1 Week: Return to school or office work
• For 6 Weeks: Wear a protective headband at night; avoid mechanical trauma
• Months 3–6: The final, natural shape is fully stabilized and visible

Benefits of an Otoplasty

• Naturally positioned, symmetrical ears
• Significant boost in self-confidence (especially in developing children)
• Permanent, lifetime results
• Scars are hidden behind the ear, making them practically invisible

Risks & Potential Complications

• Mild post-operative bleeding or localized infection
• Slight asymmetries between the two ears
• Over-correction (ears pinned too close to the skull)
• Keloid/hypertrophic scarring (extremely rare behind the ear)
• Internal sutures may occasionally expose or become palpable

Psychological Impact on Children

Studies indicate that children who undergo ear pinning surgery experience a major positive shift in their self-concept, face less social exclusion, and display improved academic and social integration. Thus, the surgery delivers immense psychological value beyond the cosmetic correction.

Conclusion

Otoplasty is a safe, highly established procedure that permanently corrects protruding ears. Especially for young children, it represents a life-changing intervention that dramatically boosts self-worth and social confidence. For adults, the surgery is equally straightforward, yielding exceptionally pleasing and reliable aesthetic outcomes.